Tag Archives: jane cooper

The Best Side Hustles for College Students

Besties, I get it. I did 2 majors and a minor during college, so I know what it’s like to be BIZ-ZEE. I also worked a ton of odd jobs to be able to afford tuition, gas, food, and all the other extra college costs. (Did I need a $7 iced coffee every day? No. Did that stop me? Also no.)

Look, dinner does not have to be three granola bars for the fourth night in a row, my Kitelings! Let’s break out of this cycle!

Good news: I’ve rounded up the best ways to make money without selling your plasma (again). I wish I knew about these odd jobs in college, because there are a lot more flexible gigs than you’d think! Maybe you might even learn something useful along the way… 😉.

1. Pet Sitting / Dog Walking

Obviously, this had to be #1. What could be better than both serotonin and a little spending money?

Apps like Rover let you get paid to hang out with pets. It’s the dream job… unless you’re allergic to joy (or dander). You can customize your prices, too!

I used Rover to pet-sit for two summers during college, and I have no regrets! The app gives you all the details on the doggies, including age, breed, and any special needs they may require.

Pro tip: look for houses that have pools. (Just joking. But for real, though… 😉)

2. Tutoring

As stressful as these hardcore college courses feel, remember that you still graduated high school! You’re basically Einstein to a struggling 16-year-old.

Sites like Wyzant – or even your campus bulletin board – are great places to start. Be sure to stay on the lookout for families/companies posting ads for tutoring positions.

Bonus points if you can explain algebra without crying!

3. Delivery Apps

DoorDash, Uber Eats, Postmates – they may be the last 3 charges to your debit card, but they can also be a way to earn money, too!

Picture this: you set your own hours, blast your Beyoncé playlist (it’s been a while since I mentioned the queen, so we’ve got some ground to make up), and get paid to deliver burritos.

If you’ve got your own car, you might consider trying this out as a side hustle. Even if it’s torture to smell all that yummy food without being able to eat it, it’s worth it!

4. Resell Thrifted Finds (The “Main Character” Side Hustle)

Thrift store treasure hunting isn’t just for fashion majors. If you’ve got an eye for vintage vibes, flipping finds on Depop or Etsy can bring in some extra cash.

Head on down to your local Goodwill and get to work! This side hustle might require you to build up your credibility online, which can take some time.

BUT: now you can say “I run a small business” on LinkedIn and actually mean it!

5. On-Campus Jobs

Of course, no one understands college students’ crazy schedules like your campus itself! There are a ton of part-time on-campus opportunities with flexible hours.

At my university, there was a recruitment fair in the beginning of the year for places like the library writing center and the campus community garden.

You’re bound to find something that fits into your schedule and doesn’t overwork you to death.

6. BTW – Don’t Sleep on Scholarships 😴💸

Side hustles are great and all, but don’t forget: free money > earned money.

Take a quick a sec to check out Red Kite – we make it super easy to find scholarships you actually qualify for. Like, “scrolling while waiting for your coffee” easy.

We personalize your scholarship results to bring you opportunities that are relevant and interesting! So click that logo at the top to start exploring over $27 BILLION in scholarships, grants, and loans.

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You don’t need to pull all-nighters to survive college. A good side hustle fits your schedule, funds your boba habit, and maybe even sparks a passion project.

My friend who worked at our campus community garden part-time now owns a thriving garden herself. All the knowledge about plants she accumulated ended up turning into a new hobby!

So go forth and hustle – smart, not hard. And hey, treat yourself to guac next time. You’ve earned it.

Check out Red Kite today! www.myredkite.com

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Why This Texas Mom Homeschools

Ever wondered what it’s like to homeschool your kids in Texas? This week for Red Kite, I sat down with Holly, a local homeschooling mom, to find out!

Holly got real with us about the struggle to juggle the lesson plans and socialization – and the occasional existential crisis – that comes with teaching your own children. Spoiler alert: turns out public school might take longer than necessary!

And believe it or not, there are even scholarship opportunities and discounts on resources for homeschoolers, too. Let’s get into it!

  1. How long have you been homeschooling?

    a.  I’ve homeschooled from the beginning, so five years. Seven, if you include the early years of preschool.

  1. Why did you choose homeschooling over traditional schooling?

    a.  So many reasons! I didn’t want my children to become a product of the public school system that dumbs kids down and churns them out like identical little robots who follow “the system”. Education is not one-size-fits-all. Kids thrive in many different ways, and I wanted to be able to cater to my children’s interests and needs. I wanted them to be independent thinkers who understand that learning is lifelong and something to enjoy, not dread.

  1. What homeschooling philosophy or approach do you follow (e.g., classical, unschooling, Charlotte Mason, etc.)?

    a.  For the early years, I leaned towards Waldorf. Once formal schooling started, we did Classical Conversations. It didn’t take long for me to realize that was not how [my son] would learn best. So after a year of Classical, we switched. I am eclectic who leans towards Charlotte Mason and unschooling. I’ve done both. I quickly realized I don’t do well with being told to do x,y,z on Monday and a,b,c on Tuesday.

  1. Were you a teacher before you decided to pursue this path? If so, what did you teach? If not, did you have to take any credential courses?

    a.  No, I was not a teacher, and no formal courses are needed. There are so many programs and curriculums that it’s fairly easy to help your kids learn without being formally trained. To be fair, I do have a natural teaching ability, though.

  1. Do you follow a set curriculum, or do you design your own lesson plans?

    a.  For reading and math, I do follow a set curriculum, but everything else I piece together from lots of different resources and make it my own.

  1. What subjects do you find easiest – and most challenging – to teach?

    a.  This is hard… both kids are dyslexic. I’ve essentially had to teach myself how to be a reading specialist. It’s literally been 5 years of research on my part trying to stay up-to-date with research and the science of reading. So that is by far the hardest.

    I also find history hard, because I’m committed to teaching real history and not the watered-down “Americanized” history. Finding the balance of accuracy and then sensitivity to my children’s ages and appropriateness for said ages has been challenging.

    Art is easiest for me because I love it. Nature study has also been pretty easy, because it’s fun and hands-on.

  1. What resources (books, websites, programs) do you rely on the most?

    a.  I rely most on the Science of Reading body of knowledge – and teachers with Instagram accounts who utilize the Science – my Rooted in Language curriculum, the Charlotte Mason philosophy, and the other moms in our co-op.

  1. How do you handle assessments and measure progress without traditional grading systems?

    a.  Essentially, I don’t move on until my kids are proficient in something. Since it is just the two kids, it’s pretty obvious what they know and don’t know.

    For high school, I will start keeping records of everything for college purposes. Their reading and math curriculums have assessments, but everything else is just a matter of common sense on my part.

  1. What strategies do you use to balance homeschooling with other responsibilities (work, household, personal time)?

    a.  Most of the public school day is managing 30 kids. It only takes 2-3 hours to do school at home. There is so much free time for field trips, time with friends, and housework/cooking/errands. You would have to be on your phone all day – or just wasting time – to not fit those things in.

  1. How do you ensure your students have socialization opportunities?

    a.  Austin has a huge homeschool community, so socialization is easy. There are meetups, co-ops, etc. all over the Austin area. We joined a co-op to have consistency in activities and friends. So, the same families/friends are together every week. On Thursday, we have a school day with our co-op, and then every week there is either a field trip or hike/play date.

  1. What extracurricular activities or community programs do you participate in?

    a.  I guess I kind of answered this already. But the kids have also done some sports through the Y.

  1. Are you aware of financial aid or scholarships available to homeschooling families?

    a.  I have reached out to [coursework] companies directly and been met with very generous responses. I was unable to afford part of their reading program a year ago, and the company gladly gave me the resource for free. A lot of times you have to ask directly, but if you do, it usually pays off with some discount.

  1. Where do you go to find resources that normally a school district would provide?

    a.  You can go through your school district to get dyslexia testing and other special needs assistance/programs. Because I pay taxes, I am entitled to those resources, even though my child doesn’t attend public school. You do have to enroll your child, but it’s specified that they do not actually attend.

  1. If you could improve one thing about financial aid or scholarship access for homeschoolers, what would it be?

    a.  I wish it were common knowledge and thereby eassier to access. You can join the Texas Homeschool Association to get all that information, but you have to pay a yearly fee. I would love it if it were easier to access without having to join the HSLDA.

So there you have it – homeschooling in Texas, straight from the source! Holly has proven that you don’t need a teaching degree or a bottomless supply of patience (though the latter probably helps) to give your kids an incredible education at home.

And if you’re a homeschooling parent looking for scholarships, Red Kite is here to help. Because let’s face it, if you can teach your own kids math, you definitely deserve a financial break.

Sign up for Red Kite today for access to over $27 billion in financial aid: www.myredkite.com

By Jane Cooper

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Scholarships for Writers (2025)

This week at Red Kite, I wanted to help out my fellow writer Kitelings! (Writelings?)

Not to toot my own horn (TOOT TOOT), but having an English Literature/Creative Writing degree requires a ton of research. My undergraduate career was spent compiling sources, cross-checking facts, and falling down JSTOR rabbit holes to help make my stories and essays more detailed.

So, I know better than anyone that the last thing writers need is added financial stress on top of our hardcore college responsibilities. That’s why I’ve put together an updated list of scholarships for writers – including journalists, novelists, and short storytellers!

Journalist of the Year Scholarships

    • Deadline: March 15, 2025​

    • Award: $4,000 for the top award; five finalists receive $1,200 each.

    • Description: Recognizes outstanding high school journalists. Applicants must submit a portfolio showcasing their work.​

    • More Information:

      • All state winners’ applications for the national contest are due by 11:59 p.m. CDT, March 15.

      • Applicant’s adviser must be a current JEA (Journalism Education Association) member.

      • Applicant must be a senior in high school or equivalent for international schools.

A Public Space Writing Fellowships

    • Deadline: March 31, 2025

    • Award: Fellowship includes editorial support, publication, and a $1,000 honorarium

    • Description: Supports emerging writers who have not yet published a book. Fellows receive mentorship and publication opportunities.

    • More Information:

      • Only electronic submissions will be considered. There is no application fee. Please submit the following:

        • A résumé

        • A cover letter containing a one-paragraph biographical statement; one paragraph that is a favorite of yours from a book you’ve read, be it recently or long ago; and a brief statement telling us why this particular passage is meaningful to you.

        • One previously unpublished piece (for prose, a limit of 6,000 words; for poetry, up to 15 pages). If selected, the submitted manuscript is the piece that will be published in the magazine.

The Sub Pop Loser Scholarship

    • Deadline: March 19, 2025​

    • Award: $6,000 each for 3 winners

    • Description: For high school seniors; requires a one-page essay on a creative topic of choice.​

    • More Information:

    • Prompts:

      • What are you doing in the arts/music field in your community?

      • What does being a Sub Pop ‘Loser’ mean to you?

      • What are your influences and/or who inspired you to become involved in the arts?

      • Describe your biggest failure and explain how it has brought you closer to your goal(s).

      • Discuss a special attribute or accomplishment that sets you apart.

      • How has your family or community background affected the way you see the world?

      • Why should you be the Loser winner?

“Pen to Paper” Scholarship for Storytellers

  • Deadline: June 30, 2025​

  • Award: $1,000​

  • Description: Encourages students who enjoy crafting stories and expressing ideas. To apply for this scholarship, students must submit a 250-word piece of original creative writing.

  • More Information:

  • Applicants must be high school juniors and seniors in the graduating class of 2025 or 2026, or currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students.

  • U.S. students only.

L. Ron Hubbard Writers of The Future Contest

  • Deadline: March 31, 2025​

  • Award: Up to $5,000​

  • Description: This contest is open to new and amateur writers of science fiction or fantasy short stories or novelettes.​

  • More Information:

  • Enter a short story science fiction, fantasy, light horror. No excessive violence or sex on the page. Up to but not exceeding 17,000 words.

  • AI is not accepted.

  • Free to enter and entrants retain all publication rights.

  • Enter 1 story per quarter, up to 4 per year.

  • Anonymous judging. This is a merit-based competition. See the rules for details.

Irene Adler Prize

  • Deadline: May 30, 2025​

  • Award: $1,000​

  • Description: An annual $1,000 scholarship for women pursuing a degree in journalism, creative writing, or literature.​ Up to two awards of $250 apiece will be given for honorable mentions.

  • More Information:

  • Entry is free of charge.

  • The competition is open to women commencing or continuing to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D degree in journalism, creative writing, or literature at a recognized post-secondary institution in 2025-26.

  • Applicants may hail from any country worldwide.

  • The application period begins on January 30, 2025. The deadline is May 30, 2025. No late applications will be accepted.

  • Each application consists of the completed entry form and a 500-word essay in English based on one of the following five essay prompts:

    • Who – in any field of endeavor – inspires you with their combination of talent and hard work?

    • What is the biggest life lesson you have personally learned from the 2020’s so far?

    • Write about an event from your life and show why it means a lot to you.

    • What brings you happiness, peace, or a sense of focus and direction in our turbulent world?

    • Write a fictional short story that is gripping, memorable, or surprising – or all three at once.

I wish that I knew about these scholarships when I was in high school, so I could’ve gotten started on my writing career even earlier. The written arts are the backbone of our society, and I’m so beyond thrilled to watch what the next generation of writers will accomplish!

Remember, these aren’t the only writing scholarships available in 2025. If you sign up for Red Kite, you’ll be matched with personalized recommendations. Save those research hours for your papers!

We’re proud to be assisting tomorrow’s writers on their college journeys. You can also check out our Career Center for employment opportunities!

www.myredkite.com today!

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9 Tips for Creating Your Resume

At Red Kite, our mission is for students to be able to afford college, but we’re also here to help prepare you for your dream career, too. When you sit across that desk from someone that might potentially be your new boss (or you see your Zoom interview pop up), a superstar resume can be the key that unlocks your ideal future!

Luckily, ya girl Jane is back with a few expert tips on how to craft a strong, professional resume – or even just refine your existing one. We’re looking to demonstrate your skills, experience and potential in a clear and compelling way.

Fun fact: my dad used to print his resume on a sheet of off-white (beige) paper, so it would stand out among the pile of resumes on an employer’s desk. Little details like that can help you not only stand out, but impress with your outside-the-box thinking skills!

The first and most important thing to keep in mind while writing your resume is…

1. Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Not all jobs are one-size-fits-all. In fact, some jobs may have very specific requirements for their applicants’ resume, so be sure to double-check what is expected of you.

And even if your resume requirement is open-ended, you should approach each submission with targeted strategies. Customize your resume for each position by highlighting the most relevant skills and experience.

Think of the job description as a guide to align your qualifications with what your potential employer is looking for. Built-in cheat code!

2. Use a Clear and Professional Format

I totally get the urge to want to spice things up with a little graphic design slay. But this is a resume, not an art project! Besides, finding the sweet spot between “unique” and “professional” can be an art form in itself.

Keeping your resume clean and organized is the first step. From there, you can play around with different combinations of professional fonts, bullet points, and sections that help keep the flow. You’ll want to use a simple layout with clear section headings and enough white space to make scanning easy for recruiters.

But don’t just stick to the ole “Times New Roman”! Do something a little different, so that you can stand out. The trick is not being too over-to-the-top, to the point where your resume looks more like a wedding invitation than a professional application.

Also, be sure to save your resume as a PDF, unless instructed otherwise. There’s nothing worse than losing all that beautiful formatting!

3. Start with a Strong Summary

A brief summary at the top of your resume should highlight everything that’s about to come. That way, employers get a quick snapshot of what you’re bringing to the table, without having to read through the entire resume first.

This summary should be very brief – one or two sentences, at most. After that, you’ll move on to a summative list of your key skills, experience, and career goals:

4. Highlight Your Key Skills

Include a dedicated skills section to showcase your most relevant abilities. Use keywords from the job description to help your resume get past applicant tracking systems (ATS).

And for my Kitelings that speak more than one language, this is the perfect section to mention that you’re multilingual!

5. Showcase Your Achievements

Rather than just listing your duties at past jobs, focus on your accomplishments. This is your time to really sell the idea of yourself!

Structure your work experience to reflect career growth and increasing responsibility over time. Action words are eye-grabbing, so start bullet points with strong action verbs like “developed,” “led,” “implemented,” and “achieved” to make your contributions sound more impactful.

6. Keep It Concise

Your resume should be no longer than one or two pages. Don’t get me wrong – I care that your dog won first place in that local frisbee competition. I really do. But for your resume, you’ll want to prioritize your most important and recent experiences, which means removing outdated or irrelevant information.

And unless you’re applying for a highly technical role, you’ll want to balance technical terms with clear descriptions that any recruiter can understand. No word salad!

7. Be Honest

I know, I know… the temptation to exaggerate your resume can be super powerful, especially if you don’t have a lot of experience. But trust me, honesty is always the best policy!

You may remember that in my own college essay, I lowkey overshared about my life in order to make a compelling argument for my case: me! The same principle applies here.

So… never lie about (or even exaggerate!) your experience or qualifications. Besides, employers can verify information, and dishonesty can cost you the job entirely.

8. Use Numbers and Data Where Possible

Quantify your accomplishments with statistics, percentages, and specific numbers to demonstrate your impact. For example: “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 10.”

If applicable, you can also add links to your LinkedIn profile, portfolio, or personal website to provide more context about your work and skills. You can use tinyurl.com to shorten any larger links, but if you’re submitting an electronic copy of your resume, it’s possible for employers to simply click on your hyperlinks.

9. Keep It Updated

This is the hardest part! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve sat down to update my resume and been like, “wait… what did I do this past year?”

It can be difficult to keep track of your accomplishments and evolution. That’s why you should always regularly update your resume with new skills, achievements, and experiences to reflect your most current qualifications.

And of course, you’ll want to keep your contact information updated, too. Make sure that your phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile are current so employers can easily reach you.

On a serious note, y’all, ceating an effective resume is the key that can open doors to new opportunities. You can keep these tips while crafting a document that helps you stand out in the job market.

A well-crafted resume is the foundation of your job search, giving employers a clear picture of what you’re bringing to the table. All it takes is a little TLC on your resume to significantly improve your chances of landing your ideal role!

Red Kite know how important it is to present yourself in the best light. Whether you’re new to the job market or looking to advance your career, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Be sure to check out our Career Center to get matched to your dream job today!

Visit www.myredkite.com for more career tips, resume-building resources, and expert advice to help you soar to new professional heights!

Shake Off Your Senioritis

Welcome to senioritis: the universal condition of students who are so close to the finish line that they’ve mentally checked out. (Spoiler alert: it gets worse after spring break.)

But while it’s tempting to let your brain just go on autopilot, there’s still some work to do before you can walk across that stage!

Ya girl Jane is back with a few tips on how to pull yourself out of the slump. Let’s make it to graduation without letting your GPA slip!

1. Make a To-Don’t List

Let’s face it: the issue isn’t just the workload. It’s TikTok, endless scrolling, and reorganizing your Spotify playlists. But you need to write that essay!

Identify your biggest time-wasters (looking at you, “Love Island”) and put them on a to-don’t list. You could physically write it out and tape it to your desk to help keep yourself accountable.

This might sound counterproductive, but hear me out: you’re going to procrastinate anyway, so why not plan for it?

2. Set Bite-Sized Goals (Snack Breaks Included)

No one wants to tackle an entire research paper in one sitting. You’re not a robot! Instead, you can break big tasks into smaller chunks.

Write 300 words, then reward yourself with some chips. Finish one calculus problem set, then give yourself a 10-minute Instagram break. Progress is progress, even if it’s fueled by Doritos.

3. Romanticize the Grind

This is for my Kitelings who also suffer from an overactive imagination. Sometimes, what works for me is to pretend that I’m the main character in an indie film about my life.

Light a candle, play some lo-fi beats, and sip overpriced coffee while you study like it’s the most aesthetic thing you’ve ever done. Suddenly, finishing that English essay feels less like a chore and more like a scene from your Oscar-worthy documentary!

(Just don’t get too caught up in the fantasy, or else you’ll start daydreaming about one-liners to respond to the press on your promo tour. Just me? Never mind, then…)

4. Trick Your Brain

Hate starting? Same. Sometimes just beginning a task is the hardest part!

Try this: tell yourself you only have to work on a task for 10 minutes. Nine times out of ten, you’ll end up powering through once you get over the initial hurdle. If not? Hey, at least you did something.

And if it does work… congrats! You’ve tricked your brain into being responsible! 😎

5. Find Your Accountability Buddy

Whether it’s a friend, a group chat, or a parent/mentor, it helps to find someone to keep you on track. Give them permission to push you if you slack off.

For me, personally, roasting me won’t work. It doesn’t help for my bestie to tell me that I’m being lazy. (More often than not, that just sends me down into a spiral of despair…)

I thrive off of positive reinforcement. Lie to my face! Tell me I’ve just written the best three words of any scholarship application ever written! Nobel-prize worthy!

Even if I know it’s not necessarily true, having someone there to encourage me goes a long way. Or maybe you need to be roasted, in which case… you still watching YouTube, dude? Get to work!

6. Sleep. For Real.

Senioritis makes you want to stay up all night binge-watching your favorite shows, but let’s not forget: sleep deprivation isn’t cute. It’s just exhaustion with dark circles.

Get your 7-8 hours in so that you can actually function during the day (and crush that test). Your mind can’t work if you don’t take care of your body!

Spring semester before graduation might feel like the gravitational pull of laziness is just too strong, but don’t let it win.

Future you – diploma in hand, ready to take on the world – will thank you for putting in the effort now.

Now, go out there and show senioritis who’s boss! And don’t forget: be sure to check out Red Kite to start applying to scholarships. We’re here to help connect you to the financial aid you need, so that you can spend less time stressing, and more time studying!

Sign up today! www.myredkite.com

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10 Ways Parents Can Help With Scholarships

Your child doesn’t have to navigate the scholarship process alone. Parents play a vital role in helping students secure financial aid that can significantly reduce college costs.

Whether your child is just starting their scholarship search or already knee-deep in applications, your guidance and encouragement can make all the difference. Together, you can tackle scholarships like pros and unlock opportunities for a brighter academic future!

Here are just a few ways you can support your student:

1. Start Early

Encourage your child to begin researching scholarships as early as their freshman year of high school. Early preparation provides a head start in understanding eligibility and deadlines.

2. Create a Scholarship Calendar

Red Kite can help your child track scholarship deadlines by keeping everything in one place. Visit your dashboard to view submission dates, essay requirements, and any supporting documents still needed.

You should also motivate your child to set achievable goals for the number of scholarships they’ll apply to each month or quarter.

3. Research Together

Red Kite assists your scholarship search by sorting through over $25 billion in financial aid. We’ll match you to personalized recommendations based on your profile, so you can spend less time researching, and more time applying.

Be sure to check out our advanced filters to find opportunities that align with your child’s interests and personality.

4. Proofread Essays

Offer to review and edit your child’s scholarship essays. Look for grammar errors, clarity, and how well they answer the prompt.

If essays aren’t your strong suit, you might consider investing in a tutor, or an online proofreading service like Grammarly.

5. Teach Financial Literacy

Help your student fully understand the cost of college, so that they grasp the importance of scholarships. Be sure to include discussions about tuition, housing fees, textbooks, and other necessary expenses.

6. Practice Interview Skills

If a scholarship requires an interview, you can help your child prepare by conducting mock interviews.

Discuss your child’s talents, interests, academic history, and unique traits in order to practice their responses on a variety of subjects.

7. Keep an Eye on Scams

Teach your child to avoid scholarship scams, such as those asking for fees, Social Security numbers, or promising “guaranteed” awards. We offer several different guides and blogs to help you stay aware.

For example, consider reading our post on how to identify and avoid scholarship scams.

8. Assist with FAFSA

Help your child complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is often a requirement for need-based scholarships.

9. Get Involved Locally

Help your child look into scholarships from local businesses, civic groups, or religious organizations.

Encourage participation in clubs, sports, and volunteer activities early in high school to build a strong résumé for scholarship applications.

10. Stay Positive

Scholarship applications can be time-consuming, but remind your child that persistence pays off. Even a single scholarship can significantly offset college costs.

Be a source of encouragement. Rejection is part of the process, but your support can keep your child motivated.

Whether big or small, celebrate every scholarship your child wins to keep the momentum and excitement alive.

Helping your child with scholarships isn’t just about reducing college expenses – it’s about setting them up for success and showing them the value of hard work and perseverance.

By taking an active role in their scholarship journey, you can help them uncover opportunities they might not have found on their own and increase their chances of success.

Every little bit counts, and with your support, they’ll be better equipped to achieve their academic and financial goals.

Start applying these tips today, and watch your child’s college dreams come to life!

Sign up for Red Kite today: www.myredkite.com

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8 Reasons to Consider a Small-Town College

Besties, when I was applying to college, I thought bigger was better. I toured massive public universities like the University of Texas and the University of Alabama, and I was starting to picture myself in those giant lecture halls, surrounded by hundreds of classmates.

Then it hit me: smaller class sizes meant more time and attention from my professors. I ended up choosing a school with an average of 15 students per class, because I knew there was no risk of getting lost in a crowd.

Don’t get me wrong – living in a big city and/or attending a college with a huge student body comes with a huge amount of benefits. But there’s something special about the unique advantages that small-town colleges offer. Let’s dive into eight reasons why a small-town setting might be the perfect fit for you!

1. Lower Cost of Living

The majority of small-town colleges are located in areas where expenses are significantly more affordable than in urban centers. From lower rent prices to cheaper groceries, the cost of day-to-day living can be much more manageable for students.

This can make a big difference for my Kitelings relying on financial aid or juggling part-time jobs. This way, you can focus on your educational and personal goals, graduate with less student debt, and have more financial freedom for your post-college life.

Also, a lot of nearby businesses also offer student discounts, so be sure to speak up!

(You can sign up for Red Kite to discover scholarships, grants, and loans for your college journey! More on this in the end…)

2. Tight-Knit Campus Community

I can speak on this firsthand: small-town colleges foster close relationships between students and faculty. With smaller class sizes and a more personal atmosphere, you’re more likely to make meaningful connections that last long after graduation.

Plus, a lot of small-town teachers live on campus, and there’s nothing like popping over to your professor’s for a cup of coffee! (If they invite you, of course…)

3. Focus on Academics

And for all you smart cookies, remember that small-town colleges are an ideal setting for focusing on your studies because they provide you with a quieter environment, which means fewer distractions! Without the constant hustle and bustle of the big city, you can create a steady routine and truly immerse yourself in your academic pursuits.

Trust that libraries and study spaces are way less crowded, giving you the perfect place to concentrate. Additionally, the reduced stress of a slower-paced environment can help you maintain better mental health. You need to stay sharp and productive throughout your college journey!

4. Outdoor Adventures

Many of these small-town colleges are surrounded by natural beauty. Whether it’s forest trails, rivers, mountains, or scenic parks, there’s an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation! As fun as it is to take the subway to class, you might also enjoy a hike to a scenic waterfall! (Say hi to Bambi from me.)

My college actually offered a school-sponsored program for outdoor adventurists to pay a small fee and venture out to the mountains for hiking, biking, or swimming. One day, I hopped on one of their trips to the beach, and it was so fun and refreshing!

5. More Involved Greek Life

If joining a fraternity or sorority is on your college bucket list, small-town schools often offer a more close-knit experience! With fewer students, smaller chapter sizes = more meaningful opportunities for leadership and involvement.

Of course, like with most universities, Greek life plays a significant role in shaping the campus culture. These organizations frequently host events that involve the entire town, from charity fundraisers to homecoming parades. This way, their members can build connections both on and off campus… okay, networking!

6. Local Charm and Culture

Think of the distinct charms of small towns, filled with local traditions, festivals, and businesses that give the area character! These communities tend to be deeply rooted in history, and many small towns celebrate their heritage through events that bring people together.

In addition to the festivals, small towns often have unique, locally-owned businesses that provide everything from homemade treats to one-of-a-kind boutique shops. These local gems offer a chance to support the community and discover hidden treasures you wouldn’t find in a chain store. The vibes are immaculate!

7. More Affordable Entertainment

One of the biggest perks of living in a small town is the variety of activities that are easy on your wallet. For example, you can research and find nearby charming local diners with affordable daily specials! (Now I’m craving my favorite tiny Italian place from my college town.) There’s no shortage of ways to have fun!

In my town, the local movies theater offered $5 ticket Tuesdays, which I discovered is a pretty common promotion for small-town venues. Be sure to see if there’s one of these deals near you!

8. Supportive Alumni Networks

As a graduate myself, I can testify to the idea that alumni from small-town universities develop a deep sense of loyalty and connection to their alma mater. And as I mentioned before, students from more tight-knit communities tend to build lasting relationships that can extend well into their professional lives. If you choose a small-town college, you’ll also find a robust alumni network that is genuinely invested in supporting current students (like you!).

One of the key benefits of attending a small-town college is the opportunity to tap into this network for mentorship and career guidance. Alumni feel a strong sense of duty to give back, offering their time and expertise to help other students navigate their academic and professional careers.

At my college, there were also formal mentorship programs and networking events. The sense of camaraderie that comes with graduating from a smaller school can definitely translate into real-world opportunities. Graduates might keep an eye out for potential candidates from their alma mater when hiring for internships or full-time positions. Word-of-mouth recommendations and personal referrals help open doors for you!

Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your life, and the environment you choose plays a huge role in shaping your overall experience. If any of these reasons resonate with you, it’s time to start exploring what small-town colleges can offer.

Like me, you might find that the quieter, more intentional pace of life in a small town is exactly what you need to grow academically and personally. As you begin your college search, remember that finding the right financial support is key to making your dream school a reality.

At Red Kite, we’re dedicated to helping students like you unlock access to scholarships, grants, and loans. Our platform connects you with over $25 billion in financial aid, streamlining the process and making it easier to find the support you need.

Whether you’re drawn to the charm of a small town or the benefits of a big city university, Red Kite is here to help you navigate the financial side of your college journey. We want you to focus on what really matters: your education and your future.

Sign up today! www.myredkite.com

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Scholarships for Future Teachers

Here at Red Kite, we are honored to support our future educators’ careers!

Teaching is one of the most impactful careers that a college student can pursue. From kindergarten to college and beyond, our teachers shape the minds of the next generations and build the foundation for a better society.

However, pursuing a degree in education often comes with financial challenges. The good news? There are countless scholarships designed specifically to support aspiring educators.

Whether you’re passionate about early childhood education, special education, or otherwise, we’re a big fan of scholarships to help lighten the financial load. Supporting all college students is what we do!

Why Pursue a Teaching Career?

Before diving into the scholarships, let’s take a moment to celebrate why teaching is such a meaningful profession. As a teacher, you have the opportunity to:

  • Inspire and motivate students to achieve their full potential.

  • Make a tangible difference in your community.

  • Contribute to closing educational gaps and promoting equity.

  • Build a career that offers stability and growth opportunities.

Despite these rewards, the journey to becoming a teacher requires significant financial investment. This includes tuition, certification costs, and more. That’s where scholarships come in.

Top Scholarships for Future Teachers

Here are some of the best scholarships available to aspiring teachers:

  1. TEACH Grant

    • Amount: Up to $4,000 per year

    • Eligibility: For students committed to teaching in a high-need field in a low-income area for at least four years after graduation.

    • How to Apply: Complete the FAFSA and enroll in a TEACH Grant-eligible program.

  2. Pass the Torch Teachers Scholarships

    • Amount: $5,000

    • Eligibility: One scholarship is awarded to a recipient planning a career in elementary education, and one is awarded to a recipient planning a career in secondary education.

    • How to Apply: Create a less than 6-minute video sharing the story of a teacher who inspired you and what lessons you want to pass on to your future students.

      • Upload the video to a platform like YouTube or Vimeo, then email the application along with a link to your video to the committee.

  3. James Madison Graduate Fellowships

    • Amount: Up to $24,000

    • Eligibility: For graduate students pursuing a degree in American history or government with plans to teach secondary education.

    • How to Apply: Submit an application detailing your career goals and academic achievements.

  4. The Hispanic Scholarship Fund

    • Amount: $500 to $5,000

    • Eligibility: For students of Hispanic heritage pursuing a career in teaching.

    • How to Apply: Submit an application with academic and community service details.

Tips for Winning a Teaching Scholarship

Getting a scholarship isn’t just about meeting eligibility requirements – it’s also about standing out. Here are a few tips to help increase your chances of winning:

  • Craft a compelling essay: Share your teaching philosophy, career goals, personal story to connect with the scholarship committee.

  • Highlight your experience: Volunteer work, tutoring, or other education-related activities can demonstrate your commitment.

  • Secure strong references: Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or mentors can strengthen your application.

  • Stay organized: Keep track of deadlines and required materials to ensure you submit a complete application.

Investing in a teaching career is investing in the future. Scholarships can make this journey more accessible and less stressful, allowing you to focus on becoming an inspiring and effective educator.

Explore the scholarships listed above, and don’t hesitate to apply for multiple opportunities. Your dream of shaping young minds is within reach – and these scholarships can help you get there.

Are you ready to start your journey as a future teacher? Begin your scholarship search today with Red Kite, your trusted financial aid partner!

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What Happens if You Receive Too Much Financial Aid? (Over-awards)

Financial aid is essential for many college students. But what happens when you receive too much? While over-awards might sound like a great problem to have, it’s an issue that can complicate your academic situation.

Understanding how over-awards occur and the steps to resolve them will keep you on the track to success. Red Kite is here to help walk you through it.

What is an Over-award?

An over-award occurs when your total financial aid exceeds your school’s cost of attendance (COA). This can happen due to:

  • Changes in your COA (e.g., dropping to part-time enrollment).

  • Receiving additional scholarships or grants after your aid package is finalized.

  • Errors or miscalculations in the financial aid process.

Federal regulations prohibit students from receiving financial aid above their COA. Schools are required to address any over-award to ensure compliance.

How Over-awards Are Identified

Financial aid offices monitor your aid package to ensure it aligns with your COA. Over-awards are usually flagged when:

  • Additional scholarships or awards are reported to the school.

  • Adjustments are made to your enrollment status.

  • Audits or reviews uncover discrepancies in your aid package.

What Happens Next?

Once an over-award is identified, the school will take action to resolve it. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Notification
    Your school’s financial aid office will notify you of the over-award. This notification will outline the steps needed to resolve the issue, as well as deadlines for any required actions.

  2. Adjustment of Aid
    To correct the over-award, your school may:

    • Reduce or cancel loans, grants, or work-study funds.

    • Request a refund of scholarships or grants from the awarding organization.

  3. Repayment Obligations
    If funds have already been disbursed to your account or refunded to you, you may be required to repay the excess amount. This could involve returning funds to the school or the federal government.

Steps to Prevent Over-awards

While over-awards can be resolved, it’s best to avoid them altogether. Here are some tips:

  • Communicate with your financial aid office: Notify them of any external scholarships or financial changes as soon as possible.

  • Monitor your aid package: Regularly check your financial aid account to ensure your aid aligns with your COA.

  • Be mindful of enrollment changes: Dropping classes or changing your enrollment status can affect your COA and aid eligibility.

What Should You Do If This Happens to You?

If you’re notified of an over-award, take these steps:

  1. Contact your financial aid office immediately to discuss your options.

  2. Work with the office to create a resolution plan, whether that’s adjusting future aid or arranging repayment.

While over-awards might seem overwhelming, they are manageable with the right approach. Staying informed and maintaining open communication with your financial aid office can help prevent and resolve these situations.

For more tips and tools to navigate your financial aid journey, explore Red Kite’s resources today. Together, we can make your path to education smoother and stress-free.

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Financial Aid for Study Abroad Programs? Sign Me Up!

I’m gonna be honest with y’all: I didn’t think I could afford to study abroad. By the time my senior year of college rolled around, I had given up all hope, because I needed to squeeze in too many last-minute credits.

Luckily, my university offered a month-long study abroad option, as opposed to a whole semester. The total cost for the trip came out to $3,000, which covered my housing, museum passes, and a limited public transport pass – it did not include my plane tickets and meals.

Not to mention all the souvenirs I needed to squeeze into my carry-on… how am I not supposed to grab a £30 snow globe of Buckingham palace?! But I digress.

My Kitelings, the reality is that studying abroad is much more financially possible than you might think. It’s so important for our students to discover different cultures and history (and how hard it is to navigate foreign subway systems), so let’s get into it!

Why Study Abroad?

Besties, you can only learn so much about a different country in a classroom. Immersing yourself in a completely new place is the key to truly understanding its culture!

Of course, traveling is expensive in general, let alone to potentially other continents. But it’s important to study abroad for a multitude of reasons, beyond just personal growth:

  • To learn adaptability

  • To unlock problem-solving skills

  • To demonstrate cultural awareness

All of these are traits that employers highly value. In fact, research shows that students who study abroad have better career prospects and often earn higher salaries.

So, what’s stopping you? The cost? Maybe we can check off that box! There are numerous financial aid options designed specifically for students who want to study abroad.

Opportunities for Study Abroad

When it comes to financing your study-abroad experience, there are plenty of options to explore:

  • Scholarships and Grants: These are the golden tickets of financial aid!

    • Scholarships and grants don’t need to be repaid.

    • Many organizations, such as the Fulbright Program and the Gilman Scholarship, specifically support students studying abroad.

    • Some scholarships are geared toward students in certain fields, or certain sponsoring countries.

      • Others prioritize diversity and inclusion, which helps students from underrepresented backgrounds access global education.

  • Federal Aid: Did you know you can sometimes use your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) funds for study-abroad programs?

    • Check with your university’s financial aid office to see if your chosen program qualifies.

  • University Programs: Many colleges and universities have partnerships with international institutions.

    • This allows you to study abroad while paying your home school’s tuition rate.

    • Some even offer specific grants or scholarships for these programs.

Scholarship Tips for Success:

We’ve got a ton of blog posts to help you make the most of these financial aid opportunities! But in order to maximize your chances of winning, here’s a summary of a few key steps to take:

  1. Start Early: The best scholarships and grants have deadlines months in advance. Start your search as soon as you decide to study abroad.

  2. Customize Your Applications: Every scholarship has a different mission. Align your essays and application materials to reflect how you meet each scholarship’s unique criteria.

  3. Tell Your Story: Highlight what makes you unique. Whether it’s your background, experiences, or future goals, your story is your most compelling asset.

Overcoming Common Barriers

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process of applying to scholarships. Many students think they won’t qualify for scholarships or that applying is too complicated.

The truth? There’s financial aid out there for everyone! The key is persistence.

Reach out to your school’s financial aid office, or use tools like Red Kite to navigate the process with confidence.

  • Red Kite: We’ll make finding scholarships easier than ever. With access to a database of over $25 BILLION in financial aid, we’ll walk you through every step of the process: from applying, to keeping track of deadlines, to accepting!

Take the Leap

Studying abroad is more than just an educational experience; it’s a transformative journey that will shape your future.

Don’t let finances hold you back! With the right scholarship(s), you can turn your dream of studying abroad into a reality.

Ready to get started? Explore scholarships and grants today with Red Kite!

Sign up today! www.myredkite.com

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